Course Summary
Biotechnology is the application of biology for the benefit of humanity and the environment. It harnesses living organisms to provide foods and medicines, and for tasks such as cleaning toxic waste or detecting harmful substances. Biotechnology has roots in food and agriculture, using yeast to make beer and bread, and lactic acid bacteria to make cheese.
Modern technologies such as genetic engineering make biotechnology a major part of Ireland’s economic future in biopharmaceuticals, biomedicine, agriculture, the food industry and the environment.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Language Options
Language options with this course
The following language options are available to study as part of this programme:
* Time abroad utilising this language
Disclaimer: Details subject to change - always check with the college.
Note: It may also be possible to do an Erasmus+ Programme allowing you to study abroad for a
period of at least 2 months to 12 months. This study can be through English or through your
language of choice � please check with your course coordinator to see if this is possible
for this course.
Entry Requirements
Disclaimer: Details subject to change - If this is a course you are considering applying for you should check on the Colleges' website to ensure you have the latest entry requirements information.
If you believe the data above to be incorrect, please let us know at [email protected] - thank you.
PLC Progression Links
PLC courses leading to the following QQI Major Awards may be used for entry into this course.
Search for PLC Courses offering these awards (Click on the Codes)
| PLC Codes | Award Title |
| 5M0529 | Software Development |
| 5M0536 | Computer Systems and Networks |
| 5M3807 | Laboratory Techniques |
| 5M5267 | Food Science |
This Information is Correct for 2025 Entry
Points Calculator for QQI Awards:
Details of the QQI scoring system and a points calculator can be found
HERE
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
Our graduates are equipped with a wide range of capabilities and practical experience, including business and language skills to complement their knowledge of biology.
Biotechnologists find rewarding careers across Ireland’s ‘smart economy’ including biopharmaceuticals, diagnostics, healthcare, and the environment, as well as in academic and industry research. Their science knowledge and skills also opens doors to areas such as management, education, medicine and marketing.
Further Research
DISCLAIMER: These links are to official sources of information for this course - we accept no responsibility for the information on them.
